"Larry Weiss" wrote in message
...
Chris Larocque wrote:
after seeing one local for sale that turned out to have a messed up
hull, my father and I decided to buy a boat. we haven't come up to an
agreement on what kind, because honestly we don't know enough.

Stop right there. People may be getting sick of me pushing this all the
time, but you and your father need to take a boating course - now! Find
and contact Power Squadron nearby by looking he
http://www.usps.org/cgi-bin/sfind.cgi

Among all the safety and piloting stuff - stuff that you absolutely
positively need to know - the course covers types of boats and their uses,
engine types and their advantages/disadvantages, as well as watersports
like tubing. Plus, if the two of you take the classes together, it may
help you reach a consensus. You'll also meet other local boaters who may
be able to help you through this.



Best post so far!!!!!


I would also like to fish with this boat. so for me, a 17-20' bowrider
with a
Inboard/Outboard is a compromise.

My father on the other hand wants to fish with it. he says that he
wants to cruise with it too, but we can't seem to agree,

Your should also seriously consider the waters in which you will be
boating. On a small lake or calm inland waters a 17-20' boat may be fine.
Out on Long Island Sound or the Great Lakes or the ocean you may find that
a boat that small may not cut it except on the calmest of days. As far as
a bowrider vs a center console (which, from what you describe, seems to be
what your father would like, I have seen many a bowrider used for fishing,
and many a center console being used for family fun and watersports.


One other major consideration. Are you going to trailer it or park it? If
trailer, what kind of tow vehicle do you have? The bigger the boat, the
bigger the tow vehicle required and the harder it is to launch the boat.